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July 2013 Featured Volunteer: Todd Arnold

  • 7/12/2013
  • Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma

Todd ArnoldAs a young boy growing up in a small town outside of Dallas, TX, Todd Arnold knew that a legal career was something he wanted to pursue.  He felt a calling to do all that he could to provide actual help to individuals in need.
 
In pursuit of his vision to serve the needy upon graduation from Kaufman High School, Todd received a Political Science degree from the University of Oklahoma.  He then earned a Juris Doctorate from the University of Tulsa College of Law in May of 2013. 

But prior to graduation, Todd interned with Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma (LASO) for ten months in the Tulsa Law Office.  Todd was placed with staff attorneys who specialize in bankruptcy law.

    
“The experience of working in bankruptcy law was particularly attractive to me, because it required an immense amount of attention to detail, without an abundance of trial litigation,” Todd said.

Todd helped compile a significant amount of client files which were then assigned to LASO volunteer attorneys within the Tulsa area and surrounding counties.  With the leg-work already completed, these attorneys who dedicate their time and effort to assisting LASO clients were appreciative of Todd’s bankruptcy prep work when they received the client’s file.

“Todd’s help has been invaluable,” said Scott Hamilton, Managing Attorney.  “He does good work and we’ve enjoyed working with him.”

Guiding clients through the bankruptcy process gave him insight into serving persons of low income, explains Todd.  “One thing I have come to learn as an intern is that I derive great satisfaction from helping people in hard times who truly are appreciative of the legal services provided to them.” 

Todd understands that the non-profit atmosphere helps to put attorneys in contact with clients who need the same quality of legal assistance as other more fortunate individuals.

Throughout his internship, Todd gained considerable knowledge in a very specialized field of law.  A focus in bankruptcy law practice was pivotal in gaining hands-on experience toward achieving his future goals, since the transactional side of the legal profession is where Todd desires to spend most of his professional career.
 
“Because of the personal client relationships that I was able to nurture, I know I will represent future clients accurately with whatever bankruptcy issues confront them,” stated Todd.  “Thanks to the insightful instruction of the LASO attorneys, I feel confident that I am prepared for the competitive job market.”

We are too, Todd!  Thank you from everyone at LASO!

Topics:
  • Pro Bono/Legal Services